Indian cancer patients are often
presented with incurable diseases at the late stage of disease progression. The
use of Traditional Complementary and Alternative Medicine (TCAM) has been
identified by Indian oncologists as a potential factor for the delay in treatment.

A significant proportion of 42% (3629) used TCAM. The most common type of practice in this cohort was Ayurveda. 25% (2160) ,Homeopathy 22% (1901)
and others 14%(1210) had used local TM practices (e.g. Siddha Meditation,
Acupuncture and Reiki ) before coming to our institute.90% of them have used
TCAM and presented in 3rd stage (50%) or 4th stage (40%)
of the disease. 60% of the total patient (5184) who came for consultation are maximally in 1st and 2nd
stage of the disease(22% stage I, 18% II , 12% III and rest Stage
IV of the disease)

Conclusions:

Early diagnosis and
intervention is effective . Delays
in presentation related to the use of TCAM may be an important factor relating
to the high rates of advanced disease on presentation and low survival rates.
Lower socio-economic pattern of rural India, absence of facilities lack of awareness are the major factors in presentation
of Cancer in the advanced stage.